American Outdoor Brands Announces Name Change

In December 2016, Smith & Wesson fans were needled with news of a name change for Smith & Wesson Holding, the parent company of historic firearm manufacturer Smith & Wesson. Fears were dampened quickly when it became clear that the holding company, which became American Outdoor Brands, was the only entity affected by the change, and the Smith & Wesson name would remain unsullied. Now, it appears American Outdoor Brands is reversing course, effective June 1, 2020.

Starting that date, American Outdoor Brands will officially become Smith & Wesson Brands, and its ticker symbol will change from "AOBC" to "SWBI" at the market opening on June 1. This name change is part of the larger spin-off strategy of the holding company, which is preparing for a split between its firearm and accessories businesses.

In late summer 2020, a transaction will create two independent, publicly traded companies: Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. and American Outdoor Brands, Inc. Smith & Wesson Brands will encompass the firearm business, and American Outdoor Brands will encompass all outdoor products and accessories.

Currently, the holding company has 24 different brands under the same roof in addition to Smith & Wesson and Thompson/Center. Some of these brands include popular companies like Gemtech Suppressors, Crimson Trace, Caldwell, Wheeler and Frankford Arsenal.